Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace St. Petersburg is entering the final stage of its careful 10-year restoration, with ReardonSmith Architects and interior designer Cheryl Rowley leading the project. Targeting a spring 2013 debut, the 177-key hotel occupies an 1817 Russian palace once home to royalty. Two white marble lions guard the entrance, while restored female sculpted figures of muses sit atop the exterior.
Inside, the main stairway-adorned in marble with elaborate moldings and gold and bronze decoration-has been restored to the original drawings of French architect Auguste de Monteferrand. Meanwhile, guestrooms and public spaces reflect imperial Russian style while conveying a fresh, light feel.
